We acknowledge that this event is taking place in the ancestral territory of many Indigenous tribes including but not limited to the Nüümü and Newe (Paiute and Eastern Shoshone) of Payahüünadü (Owens River Gorge) and Kutzadika’a (Mono Lake Paiute) people. This land acknowledgment is a recognition of the original inhabitants of the Eastern Sierra who have cared for and currently still care for this land since time immemorial.
Over three inspiring days of mountain education and community connection, the Arc’teryx Backcountry Academy brought people together to learn, grow, and explore. From building foundational skills to sharpening technical proficiency we were proud to create a space where learning met community in the mountains. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make it such a meaningful experience.
We’re proud to have created a space where meaningful education and the outdoor community came together in the heart of the backcountry.
Are you a brand interested in becoming a partner or a volunteer looking to get involved next year?
Shoot us an email at backcountryacademy@arcteryx.com.
Sierra Mountain Guides (SMG) has been delivering exceptional mountain experiences in California’s Sierra Nevada and premier alpine destinations around the world since 1997.
During the Mammoth Backcountry Academy, each clinic will be led by an AMGA-certified Sierra Mountain Guide, bringing deep expertise and an intimate understanding of the clinic’s focus and terrain.
SMG guides are among the most qualified in the industry, with many holding IFMGA or AMGA certifications, specializing in ski mountaineering, backcountry skiing and snowboarding, rock and ice climbing, alpine mountaineering, avalanche education, backpacking, and mountain running.
Arc’teryx Academies are the pinnacle expression of the Arc'teryx brand in its truest form. Academies are purely focused on progression and education in the mountains.
Over the course of 3 days, we invite you to come and advance your skills learning from best-in-class athletes and guides. We provide various styles of clinics, there is something for everyone no matter your skill level.
After an epic day in the mountains, the community comes together for an evening of inspiration rooted in celebration of mountain culture through speakers, music and films. The heart and soul of the Academy is providing accessible mountain education and bringing the community together through a shared love and passion of the outdoors.
"The Backcountry Academy is one of my favorite events of the year. We know that the financial barrier to entry is high for backcountry ski and splitboard touring. It requires specialized equipment and avalanche training/knowledge to do it safely. The Academy provides such an amazing opportunity for folks who are intrigued or interested in getting into the backcountry to learn skills, ask questions and just try the sport in a safe and supported environment with experienced athletes and certified guides - and make new friends to get out there with!"
- Shelma Jun
“The Backcountry Academy is something I look forward to every winter. A connection of passionate mountain enthusiasts from all over the globe who are eager to elevate and progress by learning from some of the best athletes in the sport. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch participants push their abilities in a fun and supportive environment, I always leave the academy feeling inspired and like I made new friends!”
- Tatum Monod
